We Couldn’t Imagine Weeknights Without 21 Culinary Cop-Outs

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We Couldn’t Imagine Weeknights Without 21 Culinary Cop-Outs

Busy weeknights demand quick solutions that don’t skimp on flavor. That’s where these 21 recipes come in handy. Each dish is a lifesaver, turning hectic evenings into smooth sailing. These are the go-to options for keeping everyone happy and full, all without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll be the hero of the dinner table without breaking a sweat!

A bowl of noodles with meat sauce garnished with herbs, with a fork twirling some noodles.
Peanut Sauce Beef and Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re up for a bit of spice to liven up your dinner routine, consider these fiery shrimp. They’re quick to whip up on any given weeknight. Bold flavors in a no-fuss package, that’s what this dish is all about. Turn to Szechuan Shrimp when you want to add some excitement to your evening meals without the need for complex cooking or a long list of steps.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sometimes, you just need a comforting meal without spending all night in the kitchen. With this dish, you slide it into the oven and let it do its thing. It comes out rich and hearty, perfect for those evenings when you want it easy but still homely. Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is about ease and comfort, a winning combo that’s always welcomed after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring a bit of Korean flair into your kitchen without any stress. This dish is all about marinated meat with a balance of sweet and savory. On a busy night, you can’t beat the simplicity it offers. Beef Bulgogi Bowls have that takeout feel but with the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. They make your weeknight dinner feel special without the workload.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Singapore Noodles

Rice noodles with meat and veggies on a white plate.
Singapore Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Itching for something exotic but simple to make? This dish is your ticket. Stir-fried to perfection, it’s light yet satisfying and doesn’t skimp on the flavor. Singapore Noodles are that go-to for when you want to shake things up a bit during the week. They fit seamlessly into your busy schedule, bringing a taste of Asia to your table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Singapore Noodles

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Who doesn’t love a one-pan wonder that’s packed with flavor? It’s all about combining ease with a touch of sophistication. This dish is creamy, it’s comforting, and it won’t keep you in the kitchen all night. With Creamy Tuscan Chicken, you upgrade a simple chicken dinner into something to look forward to, minus the prep and cleanup hassle that usually comes with it.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Hoisin Beef

A white bowl with rice and hoisin ground beef and chopsticks on the side.
Hoisin Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Want a quick stir-fry that’ll leave everyone thinking you’ve ordered in? This is your secret weapon. It’s all about bold, sweet and savory sauce paired with tender beef. Hoisin Beef is about making an impression without much work. It’s a little bit of Asian cuisine magic on your weekday table that fits right into your hectic life.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Pizza Carbonara

A close-up of a pizza slice topped with a runny egg yolk, grated cheese, bacon bits, and black pepper.
Pizza Carbonara. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Move over traditional pizza, it’s time for a fun twist on an Italian classic. A nice break from the norm, this dish serves up comfort with each slice. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and it sure beats the usual pies. Grab a slice of Pizza Carbonara when you want the familiarity of pizza but with a unique taste that spices up your routine.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Carbonara

Chicken Pakora

Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving something crispy and packed full of flavor? Here’s the perfect snack-turned-meal. Dip them into your favorite sauces for an extra kick. Chicken Pakora is that snacky dinner you can enjoy any night, turning what could have been a dull evening into a flavorful event. They’re just the ticket when you’re after something different that’s still speedy to serve.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Pork Belly Banh Mi

3 pork belly banh mi on a white platter with limes and pickled veg in the background.
Pork Belly Banh Mi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring the streets of Vietnam right to your kitchen with this one. It’s a fusion of flavors and textures inside a crusty baguette. When you bite into a Pork Belly Banh Mi, you get a taste of something special, and it hardly takes any time at all. It’s all the flair of street food with the convenience of a quick, at-home prep.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Banh Mi

Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani

Overhead shot of a platter of shrimp biryani.
Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Introduce a riot of spices to your table with minimal fuss. The instant pot does most of the work for you, so it’s aromatic, flavorful, and comforting. Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani is for those days when you want to enjoy bold flavors but don’t want to stand over the stove. This dish is proof that a little spice can make your regular schedule a lot more enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani

Ramen Fried Chicken

Hand reaching into a bowl of ramen fried chicken pieces.
Ramen Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Give your regular fried chicken a makeover with an instant ramen crunch. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and doesn’t require you to spend hours in the kitchen. Ramen Fried Chicken transforms an everyday favorite into a crunchier, new experience. It’s all about taking something familiar and giving it a twist on those evenings when you want something both comfortable and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken

Sopa de Camarones

A bowl of shrimp soup.
Sopa de Camarones. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Soup on a weeknight can be more than just a warm-up act. It’s hearty, it’s filled with goodness and comes together quicker than you’d think. Grab a spoon and enjoy Sopa de Camarones to break the monotonous soup routine with its vibrant flavors. It’s an infusion of taste that’s ready in a snap, perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Camarones

Chilaquiles

Overhead shot of chilaquiles on a black plate with a fork and knife on the side.
Chilaquiles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Turn yesterday’s tortillas into today’s breakfast-for-dinner star. Quick, uncomplicated, and endlessly customizable. Chilaquiles are just the thing for a laid-back dinner that screams comfort with each bite. It’s one of those meals that proves simple ingredients can create something extraordinary on your dinner table without any dress-up.
Get the Recipe: Chilaquiles

Tandoori Chicken

A plate of tandoori chicken with a side dish of cooked rice, shot from a low angle.
Tandoori Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Skip the need for an actual tandoor and still get all the flavors you’re after. This dish is straightforward, packs a punch, and brings color to your plate. With Tandoori Chicken, you treat yourself to an Indian classic that’s sure to break the routine. It’s for nights when you want to spice things up without too much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Chicken

Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Shrimp tacos on a plate with lime wedges.
Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re in the mood for something quick and brimming with flavor, this dish hits the spot. It’s a fun fusion of land meets sea, nestled in a soft taco. Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos are all about mixing things up without the hassle. They’re a winner for any night when time’s short but you still want a meal that’s big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Pancit Bihon

Pancit noodles on a plate with veggies and chicken.
Pancit Bihon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Who needs takeout noodles when you’ve got this dish at your fingertips? It’s light, it’s loaded with goodies, and it comes together quickly. Pancit Bihon is a flavorful way to introduce a Filipino favorite to your repertoire. It’s just right for those weekdays when you need something simple yet rewarding that goes beyond the usual pasta dish.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon

Crispy Beef

Low angle shot of crispy beef on a plate.
Crispy Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Get your fill of something crispy without the deep-fried worry. This dish is a stellar choice when you’re after a satisfying crunch. Crispy Beef is that much-needed pick-me-up meal after a string of bland dinners. It proves you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen for a meal that’s both exciting and effortless.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef

Kerala Fish Curry

Fish curry in an earthenware baking dish.
Kerala Fish Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Fancy a fish dish that’s indulgent yet not too labor-intensive? This one brings the coastal flavors straight to your kitchen. Kerala Fish Curry is a breeze to make and is a mouth-watering way to enjoy a touch of Indian cuisine. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something different from the usual, without all the work.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry

Peanut Sauce Beef and Ramen Noodles

A bowl of noodles with meat sauce garnished with herbs, with a fork twirling some noodles.
Peanut Sauce Beef and Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Here’s a blend of nutty, savory, and slurp-worthy noodles that’ll change up your dinner game. It’s savory, heartwarming, and gives you that much-needed comfort after a long day. Dig into Peanut Sauce Beef and Ramen Noodles for a dinner that’s uncomplicated yet full of taste and warmth. It’s a dish that speaks cozy and easy in the same breath.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Sauce Beef and Ramen Noodles

Korean Hot Dogs

Overhead shot of Korean hot dogs on parchment paper.
Korean Hot Dogs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ever thought of combining the American classic with Korean street food vibes? It’s an unexpectedly wonderful mix that works for any occasion. Korean Hot Dogs are both familiar and novel, ideal for weeknight fun. They’re easy to make and easier still to love. This dish is just the ticket when you’re after something effortless with a unique kick.
Get the Recipe: Korean Hot Dogs

Spicy Miso Ramen

A bowl of ramen with karaage chicken.
Spicy Miso Ramen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’ve got a thing for noodles with a bit of heat, this dish has got you covered. It’s a comforting bowl of warmth with a kick of spice. Spicy Miso Ramen is all about bringing that ramen shop feel to your dining table without the extra time or effort. It’s a quick, cozy, and lively option for spicing up dull evenings.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Miso Ramen

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